Lobster, American – U.S. Georges Bank, U.S. Gulf of Maine & Canada

American Lobsters are found off the Atlantic coast of North America from Newfoundland to Virginia. They can grow to a large size of 18kg (40lbs) and reach sexual maturity between 5-10 years old.

In the U.S., the abundance of American Lobster varies between regions. The Gulf of Maine and Georges Bank populations are at healthy abundances and are well-managed. Most U.S. American Lobster catches come from these areas. In Canada, the abundance level of American Lobster relative to conservation targets is unknown, but in most populations abundance appears to be stable or increasing.

American Lobsters are caught using traps baited with herring. Unfortunately the lines that connect the traps or pots sometimes entangle critically endangered North Atlantic Right Whales and threatened Humpback Whales, and this is a significant threat to the recovery of these whales. The fishing method causes moderate damage to bottom habitats.

The Maine lobster fishery and Eastern Canada offshore lobster fishery have been certified as environmentally sustainable by the Marine Stewardship Council.